Summary

Exceptional Learnersis an outstanding introduction to the characteristics of exceptional learners and their education, emphasizing classroom practices as well as the psychological, sociological, and medical aspects of disabilities and giftedness. In keeping with this era of accountability, all discussions and examples of educational practices are grounded in a sound research base. With over 600 new references added to the 11 th edition, the authors are committed to bringing the most current and credible perspectives to bear on the ever-increasing complexity of educating students with special needs in todayrs"s schools. The authors believe firmly that responsible instruction can help all students to maximize their potential, and they offer practical suggestions for ways in which educators can meet the educational needs of students with special needs and diverse abilities in collaborative environments that include families, other professionals, and the community.

Table of Contents

Exceptionality and Special Education

Getting Oriented to Exceptionality and Special Education

Educational Definition of Exceptional Learners

Prevalence of Exceptional Learners

Definition of Special Education

Providing Special Education

Teachers Roles

History and Origins of Special Education

Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) and Development of the Profession

Parents and Other Professional Organizations

Legislation and Litigation

The Intent of Legislation: Individualized Education for Students with Disabilities

Our Perspective on the Progress of Special Education

Summary

Current Trends and Issues

Integration of People with Disablities into the Larger Society

Inclusion in Schools Early Intervention

Transition to Adulthood and Employment Zero Tolerance, PBS, PBIS, and Other Issues of Discipline

Concluding Thoughts

Regarding Trends and Issues

Multicultural and Bilingual Aspects of Special Education

America and Multiculturalism Multicultural and Bilingual Special Education Assessment

Instruction in Multicultural and Bilingual

Special Education

Teaching Tolerance and Appreciation

Working with Families

Improving Instruction for Language Minority

Students Adopting Effective Teaching Practices

Identifying and Implementing Effective Reading Instruction

Parents and Families

Professionals Changing Views of Parents

The Effects of a Child with a Disability on the Family

Family Involvement in Treatment and Education

Learners with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Whats in a Name?

Mental Retardation Vs. Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Definition

Prevalence

Causes

Identification

Psychological and Behavioral Characteristics

Educational Considerations

Functional Behavioral Assessment and Positive Behavioral Intervention and Support

Service Delivery Models

Assessment of Academic Progress, Adaptive Behavior, and Quality of Life for Students with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities

Early Intervention

Transition to Adulthood

Learners with Learning Disabilities

Definition

Identification Prevalence

Causes

Psychological and Behavioral Characteristics

Educational Considerations

Assessment Early Intervention

Transition to Adulthood

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Brief History

Definition

Prevalence

Identification Causes

Psychological and Behavioral Characteristics

Educational Considerations

Medication Considerations

Assessment Early Intervention

Transition to Adulthood

Learners with Emotional or Behavioral Disorders

Terminology

Definition

Classification

Prevalence

Causes

Identification

Psychological and Behavioral Characteristics

Educational Considerations

Assessment Early Intervention

Transition to Adulthood

Learners with Communication Disorders

Definitions

Prevalence

Communication Variations

Language Disorders

Speech Disorders

Educational Considerations

Assessment of Language Development and Academic Progress for Students with Communication Disorders